Thandiwe Zulu

Public works launches action plan to end construction failures

South Africa's Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has unveiled the South African Construction Action Plan to address chronic issues in public construction projects. Minister Dean Macpherson announced the initiative in Cape Town, aiming to restore accountability and halt the cycle of incomplete schools, hospitals, and escalating costs. The plan targets mismanagement, disappearing contractors, and criminal interference in the sector.

GNU clearing house adopts terms of reference after year-long delay

South Africa's Government of National Unity clearing house has finally adopted its terms of reference, more than a year after its establishment. The mechanism, aimed at resolving policy disputes in the 10-party coalition, includes an 'agree to disagree' clause for unresolved issues. This development comes ahead of the 2025 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement.

Ramaphosa reaffirms commitment to strengthen SA-Switzerland relations

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to strengthening trade and diplomatic relations with Switzerland during his historic state visit to Bern. The visit, the first by a democratic South African president, included bilateral talks and the signing of new cooperation agreements. Leaders highlighted shared values and opportunities for deeper collaboration.

South Africa beats England to reach first women's cricket world cup final

29 oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

South Africa's Proteas women's cricket team secured a historic 125-run victory over England in the World Cup semi-final. Captain Laura Wolvaardt scored an unbeaten 169, while Marizanne Kapp took five wickets for 20 runs. The win propels South Africa to their maiden final against the winner of India versus Australia.

South Africa signals economic revival amid US diplomatic thaw

South Africa's economy shows positive signs with growth exceeding 1% and removal from the FATF Grey List, while diplomatic ties with the US under the Trump administration begin to improve. Speculation surrounds the appointment of a new ambassador to Washington, and a US ambassador-designate expressed willingness to reset relations despite longstanding grievances. However, challenges like trade barriers and political disputes persist.

Financial coach advises avoiding frail-care costs for children

30 oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

A financial wellness coach recommends factoring frail-care expenses into retirement plans after a reader shared subsidizing their mother's R30,000 monthly facility costs. With one in 10 people likely reaching 100, proactive planning can prevent children from facing similar burdens. Options include dedicated investment funds and specialized annuities.

South Africa's provincial nature reserves in crisis

South Africa's provincial nature reserves, vital for biodiversity conservation, are deteriorating due to underfunding, poaching, and mismanagement. A recent report highlights systemic failures across provinces, threatening ecological and economic potential. Urgent reforms are needed to meet national and international obligations.

Halloween horrors spotlight South African challenges in 2025

29 oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

A Daily Maverick article uses Halloween themes to critique key issues in South Africa for 2025, from health insurance woes to corruption and gambling concerns. Published on October 29, it frames these as national 'monsters' and 'cans of worms'.

South Africa ends load shedding and boosts rail services

South Africa has seen significant improvements in electricity supply and rail transport under the national coalition government formed in June 2024. Load shedding has ended, easing economic pressures, while Transnet's enhancements have increased mining sales. These changes reflect the ANC's shift toward private sector involvement in key services.

Court overturns apartheid-era ruling on Chief Albert Luthuli's death

The Pietermaritzburg high court has ruled that ANC leader and Nobel laureate Chief Albert Luthuli was murdered by apartheid forces in 1967, overturning a flawed inquest that claimed his death was an accident. The judgment vindicates decades of family efforts and highlights systemic judicial manipulation under apartheid. It recommends further investigation into witness disappearances.

Witness details Matlala's alleged bribes to minister and police

In testimony before the Madlanga Commission, Witness C revealed claims by organised crime accused Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala that he paid R500,000 to support sidelined Police Minister Senzo Mchunu's ANC presidency bid. Matlala allegedly felt betrayed after the minister failed to protect him from investigations. The evidence also implicated top police officials in receiving bribes from Matlala.

Ritshidze report highlights healthcare staff shortages after Pepfar cuts

Community monitoring group Ritshidze has uncovered severe staff shortages and service declines at public health facilities in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape following US Pepfar funding cuts earlier in 2025. Data from April to June shows over 90% of clinics in some areas lacking sufficient personnel, leading to longer waits and poorer record-keeping. The group urges national and provincial health departments to act urgently.